Learn How GDA's Renewable-Powered Data Centres Warm Up Swedish Winter Roads

Heat from a data facility powered by renewable energy is offering a to the costly problem of keeping frozen roads open in cold countries. This innovation, which could have global implications, is being pioneered by GDA, one of the largest bitcoin mining companies in terms of hash rate.

GDA's latest project involves using heat generated by a new data centre in Norsjö, Sweden, to warm a large garage. This initiative ensures snow-cleaning trucks remain operational even when temperatures drop to -25°C. The project is managed by GDA's local subsidiary, GDA Sweden AB.

GDA already operates several data centres in Sweden, including facilities in Porjus and Örträsk. These centres use carbon-free electricity sourced from nearby hydroelectric power stations.

The latest project features a facility with over 500KW power capacity running 150 machines that generate a hashrate of 14 PH/s. The electricity used is entirely renewable due to its proximity to the 122 MW Vargfors Hydroelectric Power Station.

This setup provides 90,000 cubic meters of hot air per hour at 52°C across a 1200 square meter garage area. This is crucial in Västerbotten County where temperatures often fall well below zero.

Announcing this initiative with Swedish company Muttern Fastigheter from GDA's Dubai office, Executive President Abdumalik Mirakhmredov stated: "Our venture into heating a large garage space using computation excess heat is a practical example of how the industry can contribute positively and integrate with local communities."

Mirakhmredov added: "We are proud to lead these kinds of efforts in the industry because they reaffirm GDA's role as a leader in sustainability and show how bitcoin mining byproducts can be used for community utility."

The project not only keeps roads usable during freezing temperatures but also reduces operational costs for the community. Beatrice Bergqvist, head of Business and Development at Norsjö Municipality, praised the initiative: "GDA's creative approach to addressing the needs of companies in the area demonstrates a valuable intersection between new technology advancements and local community benefits."

Bergqvist continued: "Norsjö Municipality is happy that the collaboration between these two companies is working so well, and we hope for more projects like this in the future."

Jörgen Lindström, part owner of Muttern Fastigheter, expressed his enthusiasm: "When we met with GDA and first learned about this idea, we were amazed by the great opportunities this industry presents to local communities worldwide. I truly believe this could be the future of heating."

This innovative approach highlights how industries can repurpose their byproducts for community benefits while promoting sustainability. The success of such projects could pave the way for similar initiatives globally.